As the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final between Ivory Coast and Nigeria approaches, Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae has disclosed a significant change that he believes could propel the Elephants to victory. The upcoming final is a rematch of the second fixture in Group A, where Nigeria secured a 1-0 win over Ivory Coast.

Since that initial encounter, Ivory Coast has undergone a remarkable transformation. Despite facing adversity and a coaching change – with Jean-Louis Gasset being replaced by Emerse Fae as caretaker coach – the team has displayed an impressive run, defeating Senegal, Mali, and Guinea on their journey to the finals.

In contrast, Nigeria has experienced a steady ascent in the tournament, rebounding from an initial draw against Equatorial Guinea to secure victories in subsequent matches, with the exception of the semi-final against South Africa.

Both teams now stand on the brink of a closely contested final at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara. Coach Fae attributes Ivory Coast’s turnaround to a strengthened mentality and a collective resolve to represent their nation.

“Cote D’Ivoire went through trying times that have made us stronger,” Fae emphasized. “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. That’s what has changed from the group stage. The mindset also changed. We are doing this for our country. It is such a great objective that we have to amend the things that are basic in our view.”

With both Nigeria and Ivory Coast boasting remarkable talent, the final promises to deliver an enthralling and closely contested encounter between two African football powerhouses.